Victoria's Secret slammed for using Native American headdress at fashion show

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Last Updated: Wed, Nov 14, 2012 11:30 hrs

Victoria's Secret has apologized for putting a Native American-style headdress on a model for its annual fashion show, after the outfit was criticized as a display of ignorance toward tribal culture and history.

The company responded to the complaints over the weekend by saying it was sorry to have upset anyone and that it wouldn't include the outfit in the show's television broadcast next month, or in any marketing materials.

"We sincerely apologize as we absolutely had no intention to offend anyone," the New York Post quoted the company as saying.

Historically, headdresses are a symbol of respect, worn by Native American war chiefs and warriors.

For Great Plains tribes, for instance, each feather placed on a headdress has significance and had to be earned through an act of compassion or bravery.